Crispy Potato Balls Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect balance of crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, you simply must try these Crispy Potato Balls. Packed with flavor from fresh herbs, bold spices, and a touch of parmesan, these bite-sized snacks are irresistible—whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, party finger food, or just for your own cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the handful of ingredients that transform humble potatoes into unforgettable Crispy Potato Balls. Each one has a purpose: some bring flavor, others bring that beloved crunch, and a few sneak in freshness and a cheesy finish you’ll adore.

• Potatoes (3, peeled & chopped): Go for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the fluffiest interiors.
• Corn starch (3 tbsp): This is the real secret to achieving an ultra-crisp exterior—don’t skip it!
• Parsley, minced: It adds a refreshing, herby flavor and pops of color throughout the potato balls.
• Parmesan cheese, grated: For a savory, tangy kick and a beautiful, golden dusting at the end.
• Garlic powder (2 tsp): Delivers deep, aromatic notes that meld beautifully with creamy potatoes.
• Onion powder (2 tsp): Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the mix.
• Smoked paprika (2 tsp): A must for that irresistible smoky depth—regular paprika works, but the smoked kind elevates the flavor.
• Cumin powder (1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and an earthy complexity that’s subtle yet noticeable.
• Salt (to taste): Crucial for bringing out all the other flavors.
• Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or sunflower for best results.
• Sweet Chilli Mayo (optional): One part sweet chilli sauce and one part mayo make a dip you’ll want to put on everything.

Variations

These Crispy Potato Balls are endlessly customizable—swap in your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or herbs to make them truly yours! Here are a few ideas if you’d love to change things up or tailor the recipe for special diets or tastes.

• Cheesy Center: Tuck a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar into the middle of each ball for a gooey surprise.
• Herb Explosion: Add chives, dill, or cilantro for an herbal twist—fresh or dried both work beautifully.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you crave a little extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: The recipe is naturally gluten-free when fried in a safe oil and using pure corn starch.
• Vegan Adaptation: Skip the parmesan or swap it for nutritional yeast, and use vegan mayo in your dip.

How to Make Crispy Potato Balls

Step 1: Boil and Dry the Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in generously salted water until they’re fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes. After draining, let them steam dry in the colander for a few extra minutes. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, which will help your Crispy Potato Balls stay light, fluffy, and *not* soggy inside.

Step 2: Mash and Mix Everything Together

Transfer the hot potatoes to a large bowl and mash them until silky-smooth (a potato ricer is ideal, but a fork works just fine). Immediately mix in the corn starch, minced parsley, all your spices, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is evenly combined for uniform flavor in every bite!

Step 3: Shape the Potato Balls

Take about two tablespoons of the potato mixture at a time, roll it gently between your palms, and form tight, round balls. This can get a little sticky, so dampening your hands with a tiny bit of water or oil can help create perfectly smooth balls that won’t fall apart in the fryer.

Step 4: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat your neutral oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 170°C/350°F. Carefully lower the balls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them for 10–12 minutes, gently turning them now and then, until they’re evenly golden brown and make the most delightful crackling sound when you tap them.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once they’re perfectly crispy, lift the potato balls out onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain. While still piping hot, shower them with freshly grated parmesan so it melts just slightly. Serve right away with sweet chilli mayo—or any favorite dip—and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Crispy Potato Balls

Garnishes

The finishing touch makes all the difference: shower your hot Crispy Potato Balls with extra grated parmesan and a scatter of chopped parsley or chives for fresh flavor and a pop of color. You can even sprinkle a little flaky sea salt as they come out of the fryer for gourmet-level results.

Side Dishes

Pair your golden potato balls with a big salad—something crisp and tangy like arugula lemon salad works beautifully, as do steamed green beans or even grilled corn. They’re also fantastic set among an assortment of appetizers for game night or a casual backyard gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading Crispy Potato Balls onto skewers for a playful presentation, or pile them high in a cone-shaped serving basket lined with paper. For parties, serve them on a board surrounded by colorful dips and fresh veggies—watch everyone gather around for more!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Crispy Potato Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll retain most of their texture, especially if you store them with a paper towel underneath to wick away moisture.

Freezing

Want to prepare a batch ahead for quick snacks? Lay the shaped, uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, just give them an extra minute or two in the oil.

Reheating

The best way to revive leftover Crispy Potato Balls is a few minutes in a hot oven or air fryer at 350°F—this restores their signature crunch without overcooking the centers. The microwave works too, though you’ll lose a little crispiness in exchange for super-fast snacking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about biting into a golden, perfectly seasoned Crispy Potato Ball—crunch, fluff, flavor, and pure comfort, all in one. Don’t wait for a party; give these a try and bring a little joy (and a lot of crunch) to your kitchen soon. I promise, once you take a bite, you’ll be dreaming up all sorts of reasons to make them again!

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